The Stanislaus County Superior Court is continuing recruitment for the 2025-2026 Civil Grand Jury term, inviting community members to apply for this unique opportunity to serve as a “watchdog” for local government operations.

The Civil Grand Jury plays a crucial role in ensuring accountability, transparency, and integrity within Stanislaus County’s government. Grand Jurors investigate local issues, examine various aspects of county and city government, and produce comprehensive reports with findings and recommendations to enhance government operations.

Presiding Judge Sonny Sandhu emphasized the importance of this civic duty, stating, “Serving on the Civil Grand Jury is a profound way to contribute to the integrity and transparency of our local government. I encourage all eligible residents to consider this unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact in our community.”

To qualify for service, applicants must be United States citizens, 18 years of age or older, and residents of Stanislaus County for at least one year. They must possess natural faculties, ordinary intelligence, sound judgment, and fair character, along with sufficient knowledge of the English language. Additionally, applicants must not be currently serving as trial jurors or elected public officers, nor have been discharged as grand jurors within the past year or convicted of malfeasance in office or any felony.

The term for the Civil Grand Jury runs from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026. Jurors will conduct investigations, interviews, attend weekly grand jury meetings, and at the end of the term, prepare a report outlining their findings. On average, jurors will spend 25 to 30 hours a month performing these duties. Applications can be requested by email at cgj@stanct.org or by phone at 209-525-4252. Interested individuals can also find more information and submit their applications online at the Stanislaus County Superior Court’s website. The deadline for applications is Tuesday, April 15, 2025.